The Miami Dolphins running back will miss the rest of the season with a torn chest muscle, according to his agent, Leigh Steinberg.

Williams was hurt Monday at Pittsburgh, when he played in his first game in nearly two years. He returned following a 1 1/2-year suspension for his latest violation of the NFL drug policy.

Steinberg said the arm will be in a sling from four to six weeks and the rehab will take five months.

But Steinberg said Williams expects to be ready for next season.

"It's sad given how hopeful Ricky had been about his return to football and given the amount of effort Ricky had put into his rehabilitation. But he's optimistic and hopeful for the future."

With a winless record, the Dolphins were desperate for help and eager to showcase Williams in hopes of increasing his trade value. Coach Cam Cameron decided to play Williams only a week after he joined practice.

"My No. 1 concern coming into the game, when you hurry a guy back, obviously he could get hurt," Cameron said after the game.

The Dolphins said they had no comment on Williams' status. Miami is 0-11 and plays the New York Jets on Sunday.

Williams was injured in the second quarter Monday on a play when he fumbled. After being tackled, he was accidentally stepped on while chest-down on the ground.

Williams left the game, returned briefly and departed for good after one more carry. He finished with 15 yards in six carries, and the Dolphins lost 3-0.

VIKINGS/EVANS: Minnesota defensive tackle Fred Evans received a two-game suspension for violating the league's personal conduct policy during a pair of offseason problems.

Evans was arrested twice this summer while he was on Miami's roster, for marijuana possession in Texas and for fighting with police in Florida.

PANTHERS/BRIDGES: Carolina guard Jeremy Bridges was found guilty of pointing a gun at a woman in a parking lot and was given a 60-day suspended jail sentence.

Bridges also drew a year of unsupervised probation, 60 hours of community service and a fine of $500. His lawyers said they will appeal the verdict.

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